Returning to Arts Centre Melbourne
Venue information
The Australian Ballet will return to its traditional Melbourne home, the Ian Potter State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne, for a special limited season of Sir Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker this October.
Discover more about our return to Arts Centre Melbourne.
Your questions, answered
When are you returning to Arts Centre Melbourne?
- The Australian Ballet will make a return to the Ian Potter State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne this October, marking its first performances on the iconic stage since March 2024, following the theatre’s major refurbishment.
- The homecoming will be celebrated with a limited season of Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker, one of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire.
When can I buy tickets to The Nutcracker?
All tickets can be purchased via The Australian Ballet website. See below ticket on sale dates:
- 3 February – Waitlist opens
- 4 February – Subscriber and supporter priority access pre-sale
- 10 February – Waitlist pre-sale
- 12 February – General public on sale
I’ve already booked for The Nutcracker in Sydney. Can I exchange my ticket to attend in Melbourne?
Yes, exchanges can be made for performances within the same production. Exchanges are subject to availability and the terms and conditions outlined in our ticket exchanges policy. To arrange a ticket exchange, please contact our Customer Experience team for assistance.
How much are tickets?
Ticket prices for The Nutcracker vary by performance date and seating location. Prices are set across a range of reserves to suit different preferences and budgets.
When tickets go on sale, you can view the specific price reserve and ticket type by selecting your seats, allowing you to see the exact price before completing your purchase.
Prices are correct at the time of sale and may be subject to change. Availability and pricing may also vary between performances.
2026/2027 Season Package information
Will The Nutcracker be part of the 2026 Season Packages?
No, The Nutcracker is not included in Principal and Create Your Own Packages. There are no subscription tickets available to this production. Tickets for this production will be available separately.
When will a seating map be available?
We are working closely with ACM on the changes that are impacting the seating map. The seating map for the Ian Potter State Theatre will be made available before reopening.
As a Principal Package Subscriber will I get my same seat for The Nutcracker?
- As a standalone production, The Nutcracker is not part of the 2026 subscription season.
- Subscribers will receive priority access to select their seats within the new seating layout ahead of the general public. This has no bearing on subscription seating for 2027.
What is my seat going to be in 2027?
Changes to the seating layout mean some adjustments to subscriber seating will be necessary:
- 2026 Principal Package subscribers will be allocated the closest equivalent seat to their original State Theatre seat within the updated layout.
- Principal Package subscribers who joined after 2023 will receive a new seat based on the price reserve associated with their current seat at the Regent Theatre.
- 2023 subscribers who did not join us at the Regent Theatre will still have an allocated seat held for the 2027 season. While the seating configuration of the State Theatre has been changed, every effort will be made to allocate seats as close as possible to original locations.
- Subscribers may make changes to their allocated seat when Season 2027 packages go on sale.
Will my memorial plaque still exist, and will it remain on the same seat number?
Arts Centre Melbourne is currently reviewing all seat plaques ahead of reopening and will provide further information in the coming months.
Can I swap one of my existing Melbourne package performances to attend The Nutcracker?
No, exchanges can only be made for performances within the same production.
Ian Potter State Theatre upgrades
What changes have been made to the Ian Potter State Theatre?
Enhancements include new seating, improved acoustics, upgraded heating and ventilation, high-performance sound systems, energy-efficient lighting, and new aisles and accessible seating in the stalls.
Is the theatre accessible?
Yes. The redeveloped State Theatre includes improved accessible seating and amenities, ensuring more people can enjoy ballet comfortably.
Are there facilities for patrons with mobility needs?
Yes. The theatre offers wheelchair-accessible seating, lifts, ramps, and accessible amenities throughout the venue. Please contact Arts Centre Melbourne for specific accessibility requests.
Will there be parking near the venue?
- Parking is available at The Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre Car Park, conveniently located behind Arts Centre Melbourne, on Kavanagh Street.
- Arts Centre Melbourne also offers on-site parking, and public parking and transport options are also available.
- See Arts Centre Melbourne’s website for full details.
Are food and drink options available during the performance?
Yes. The theatre foyers include hospitality and bar options. Please note service times may vary depending on performance times.
Is the theatre air-conditioned?
Yes. The redeveloped State Theatre features modern climate control, ensuring a comfortable environment for audiences.
Thank you
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has supported The Innovation Campaign. Your generosity has been a source of strength and inspiration for The Australian Ballet throughout our time away from the State Theatre.